South Africa took control of the second Test against India, thanks to Marco Jansen’s explosive 93 and Senuran Muthusamy’s maiden Test century. The visitors posted a formidable 489 on day two in Guwahati, leaving India trailing by 480 runs at stumps.
Muthusamy scored 109, forming a crucial 97-run partnership with Jansen for the eighth wicket. Jansen, standing tall at 6ft 8in, frustrated the Indian bowlers with his clean hitting. His 91-ball knock included six fours and seven sixes, the latter equaling the record for most sixes in a Test innings against India.
Jansen’s innings ended when he dragged a Kuldeep Yadav delivery onto his stumps. Yadav was the pick of the Indian bowlers, finishing with four wickets.
Muthusamy praised Jansen’s performance, calling it “sublime” and highlighting his ability to strike the ball cleanly. “It was an awesome treat to watch from the other end,” he said.
India’s openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, managed to survive the six overs before bad light stopped play. They ended the day at 9 for no loss, with Jaiswal on 7 and Rahul on 2.
Earlier in the day, Muthusamy reached his century off 192 balls, celebrating with a punch in the air. He was eventually dismissed after the second break, but Jansen continued the charge with lower-order contributions from Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj.
South Africa’s innings showcased disciplined batting, with partnerships building pressure on the Indian bowlers. Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav provided breakthroughs, but the visitors’ total remained imposing.
India now faces a daunting task on a pitch still favorable for batting. The hosts will need a strong response to stay in the game and prevent South Africa from securing their first series win in India in 25 years.While South Africa dominated India in cricket, Pakistan also claimed victory against India in the Snooker Team World Cup, showcasing India’s tough week in international sports.
